Another Dolan Debacle: Indians Exchange Cliff Lee

Each season, exchanges will occur. Contenders acquire essential components. Their opposites discard cornerstones and superstars. The latter may be conceding their campaign. However, they cannot surrender. They must receive premiere prospects.

On Wednesday, the Cleveland Indians traded Cliff Lee and Ben Francisco to the Philadelphia Phillies. As reciprocation, the Indians received minor league catcher Lou Marson, minor league infielder Jason Donald, and minor league pitchers Carlos Carrasco and Jason Knapp. “At the root of this deal was balancing the conviction of our ability to compete in 2010 with the opportunity to impact the team's construction for years to come,” said Indians General Manager Mark Shapiro. “Without the sense of confidence in the team's ultimate competitiveness, we acted aggressively to add players that will impact the organization in 2010 and beyond.”

Currently, the Phillies are 58-41. In the National League East, they lead the Florida Marlins and Atlanta Braves. Florida’s deficit is six contests. Atlanta’s deficit is eight contests.

During his career, Lee has amassed an 83-48 record. He has posted a 4.01 earned run average. In 2008, Lee garnered the American League Cy Young Award. This season, he has registered a 7-9 record. “Obviously the Phillies are the defending world champions, they're a good team and they're in first place,” he said. “Honestly, it's an honor and I look at it as a good thing. If other teams are wanting me and are willing to trade some of their key players and future players for me, it's a compliment.”

Since 2007, the Indians have discarded Casey Blake, Paul Byrd, Ryan Garko, Lee, and C.C. Sabathia. They have received only one premiere prospect. Owner Larry Dolan warrants excoriation. He has embarrassed his city. He has embarrassed his franchise. He has embarrassed Major League Baseball.